Kannur Airport Launches Inaugural Flight to Fujairah: A Historic Milestone in India–UAE Connectivity

Kannur International Airport marked a significant milestone on Monday evening with the inaugural departure of the first-ever flight from India to Fujairah, operated by IndiGo Airlines. The launch not only opens a long-awaited air link to the emirate but also establishes the only direct connection to Fujairah from South India, further enhancing regional air connectivity and providing a much-needed travel option for the expansive Malabar diaspora in the UAE.

The daily flight, operated by Airbus A320 aircraft, departs Kannur at 20:55 hrs and arrives in Fujairah at 23:25 hrs local time. On the return leg, the flight leaves Fujairah at 03:40 hrs, landing in Kannur at 09:00 hrs. Fujairah, known for its scenic coastline, port facilities, and historical significance, is a growing hub for commerce and tourism in the UAE. Its proximity to the Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman makes it a unique destination for both business and leisure travelers.

To facilitate wider access to the new service, IndiGo offers a bus shuttle service from Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Dibba to Fujairah Airport, enabling passengers from across the northern Emirates to conveniently reach the airport and board the flight.

The inaugural ceremony at Kannur International Airport was attended by senior airport officials and dignitaries. Mr. Dinesh Kumar, Managing Director of KIAL, led the celebrations, which included a lamp-lighting and cake-cutting ceremony. The first passenger of the flight was also specially felicitated, marking the significance of the occasion.

With this addition, Kannur now connects to 12 destinations in the Middle East, and the Fujairah route becomes the fifth sector from Kannur to the UAE, underscoring the airport’s rapid growth as a vital international gateway for North Kerala.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Dinesh Kumar highlighted the airport’s ongoing development and expansion plans, including enhanced passenger amenities, new airline partnerships, and infrastructure upgrades.

“This new route to Fujairah reflects our commitment to strengthening international connectivity for the Malabar region and supporting the travel needs of the expatriate community,” he said.

The new Fujairah service not only bolsters regional development but also reinforces KIAL’s vision to become a preferred airport in South India, both in terms of connectivity and customer experience.